Potato soup with ham recipe

This hearty soup is a delicious way to use up leftover ham from Christmas brunch or dinner.

POTATO SOUP WITH HAM 
Ingredients

• 5-6 potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes 
• 2 stalks celery, chopped small white or yellow onion, chopped 
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced 
• 4 cups water 
• 3 chicken bullion cubes 
• 5 tablespoons butter 
• 5 tablespoons flour 
• 2 cups milk 
• freshly ground salt and pepper to taste 

Directions 
In a large pot, combine potatoes, celery, onion, ham, water and bullion cubes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until potatoes are tender. In a separate pan, melt butter and stir in flour. Cook until thick, then slowly add milk, stirring constantly to keep lumps from forming. Stir over low heat until thickened, approximately 5 minutes. Stir into stockpot and season with salt and pepper. Cook until soup is heated through and serve immediately. Cook's Notes If you prefer a loaded potato soup, simply add some shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, bacon and a dollop of sour cream to your soup just prior to serving.